Our origins.
A practice shaped
by generations.
Every practice has a beginning. Ours connects the work of Warren “Bud” Smale, the vision of Carlos Ventin and the people who continue to shape +VG today. It is a story of continuity, new perspectives and an enduring interest in the places we share.
Architecture Canada · Dalhousie University archive
1952 · The first chapter
Warren “Bud”
Smale.
Warren M. “Bud” Smale founded the original practice in 1952. Based in Simcoe, Ontario, his firm forms the earliest chapter of the practice that would become +VG Architects.
An architect and educator, Bud served as OAA president in 1966 and was among the original faculty of Waterloo’s School of Architecture. His practice welcomed young architects from around the world, bringing a broad range of perspectives to its work.
Carlos Ventin later joined Smale’s office. Following Smale’s death in 1970, Ventin acquired the practice, carrying its work into a new chapter.
Explore the Smale legacy at Waterloo
1972 · A new chapter
Carlos Ventin.
Re-established as Ventin Architects in 1972, the practice entered a new era. Trained in Argentina, Carlos had come to Canada in 1965 before making Simcoe his professional home.
Early work included restoring Lynnwood as the Norfolk Arts Centre and adapting former Norfolk County buildings into municipal offices. These projects explored how existing buildings could take on a renewed role in community life.
Carlos’s contribution to heritage conservation was recognized with a 2013 Governors’ Award from the National Trust for Canada.
Read the National Trust profileThe continuing story
Many voices.
A shared practice.
Today, +VG brings together architects, designers, engineers and project leaders across Toronto, Brantford and Ottawa. Our work continues to connect new ideas with a respect for what is already there, creating places for people across Ontario, Canada and internationally.